Top 5 Mistakes Businesses Make With Commercial Insurance

Without question, every business should prioritize getting commercial insurance. This vital safety net can save business owners from financial disaster during vulnerable or unpredictable times.

However, some business owners make critical errors in this regard. Commercial insurance agents repeatedly see many of their clients making the same mistakes. If the agent doesn’t sound the alarm, the following five mistakes could seriously impact a client’s financial health.

1. Being Underinsured

Perhaps the most common error that commercial insurance agents see is underestimating what coverage a business might need. For example, a client may undervalue the value of their property or the scope of their liability. As a result, they may find that their policy comes up short when the unexpected happens.

To avoid underinsurance, business leaders should make regular assessments of their operations and assets. They need to account for a wide range of scenarios and determine the true level of coverage they need.

2. Failing to Review and Update Coverage

Businesses undergo many changes. A company might expand its customer base or develop a new range of products. It may update equipment and machinery to prepare for an expansion. When that happens, company leaders may need to adjust insurance coverage to adapt to these new needs — but many forget to do so.

To ensure your coverage keeps up with your growing company, take time to assess the state of your business at least once a year. Work with your insurance representative to identify coverage gaps or outdated policy terms.

3. Ignoring Business Interruption Coverage

An unexpected event can force a business to pause operations. Fires and natural disasters, for example, can result in extended periods of lost revenue — something that many owners don’t account for in their insurance coverage.

Business interruption insurance can offer a baseline of financial stability in the case of an extended closure. It’s a key add-on that can be the difference between a company’s survival and its extinction. 

4. Prioritizing Low Cost Over Quality

All businesses seek to maintain profitability. They often cut operating expenses to improve their bottom lines. Some businesses select cheaper options for insurance coverage to limit their costs — and often, that limits their coverage.

While it’s reasonable to find opportunities to save money, doing so at the expense of adequate insurance coverage can be a mistake. Work with your commercial insurance agency to form a plan that’s cost-effective but comprehensive.

5. Overlooking or Misunderstanding Exclusions

Some business owners assume they’re insured for certain conditions or items that are actually excluded from their insurance policies. That mistake can be fatal if the worst-case scenario happens. 

Commercial insurance policies can be complicated, but it’s crucial to know what parts of your business are not sufficiently covered in your insurance agreement. Work with your insurance agent to clearly understand the exclusions in your policy. If a vital part of your business is excluded, ask for add-on coverage or other solutions that may protect your finances.

Learn How to Avoid Common Business Insurance Errors

Mistakes are part of life, and no business is perfect. However, these common insurance errors are avoidable and correctable. Work with a commercial insurance agent to make adjustments to your policy for comprehensive coverage and security.

How Does Independent Insurance Offer You More Flexibility?

Modern consumers enjoy freedom of choice. They appreciate customizable solutions and the ability to choose from a variety of options. In almost every industry, one-size-fits-all offerings simply don’t fly with customers.

That’s especially true with the insurance industry. Every policyholder’s needs are unique and specific to their situation. Thus, policyholders seek flexibility when it’s time to protect their families and possessions.

More consumers are turning to independent insurance agents for this flexibility. Unbound from serving one insurance company, independent agents can develop custom plans that better suit their clients than those offered by traditional companies.

How does an independent insurance agency offer more flexibility to its customers? Here are just a few ways.

They Work for Your Interests

Corporate insurance companies aren’t all heartless and uncaring toward their customers. However, these companies set certain benchmarks and sales targets for employees to follow. As agents scramble to meet quotas and arbitrary milestones, they struggle to focus on what their clients need the most.

In contrast, an independent insurance agency serves as an advocate. Because they are not held captive to a larger corporate initiative, independent insurance agents are free to build coverage solutions that cater to their clients’ needs. They may have general business goals, but they won’t accomplish these goals if they don’t prioritize their customers.

An independent insurance agent should take the time to learn what your exact coverage needs are. This approach favors the spirit of innovation and consideration rather than set-in-stone business goals.

They Represent Several Companies

Independent insurance agents do not work for one insurance carrier; instead, they develop working relationships with multiple carriers. This allows them to connect their clients with a wide range of established companies. They are not locked into offering uniform solutions from a single corporation.

With access to a variety of carriers — and to all of the options these carriers offer — independent insurers allow clients to compare options like the costs of premiums and levels of coverage from many different companies. 

Independent insurers can set clients up with policies from multiple carriers to cover their home, auto, medical, or business insurance needs. They know which insurance companies are better for certain situations and can craft a package that covers them all.

By not being committed to single entities, independent insurance agencies can pull the best parts from each carrier to make policies that cover their clients more completely.

They Offer Objective Advice

Corporate insurers often make suggestions tied to the products they provide. That’s fair if the goal is to generate more profit, but it can affect the quality of the advice they give to prospective clients — and it’s not pertinent to each client’s unique needs.

Independent insurance agents are, in general, free from bias. They know what products their affiliated companies offer and the needs they fill the best. Since they have the freedom to use several carriers instead of just one, they can provide the straight truth about the solutions that may work the best.

Independence Means Choice

Corporate insurance companies may offer strong products. However, an independent insurance agency has the room to provide more choices. That allows them to give their clients more flexibility in their insurance options, which is exactly what clients want.

The Truth About Customized Commercial Insurance From Independent Agents

One of the most important aspects of your business plan is your commercial insurance, which guards against the many risks your company faces. But how do you get business insurance without spending too much on the coverage you don’t need or finding out at the wrong time that your one-size-fits-all policy has gaps in coverage?

Consider turning to an independent commercial insurance agency, such as Garrett Insurance. Working with an independent commercial insurance agent can help you find the perfect policy for your business.

Here’s why customized commercial insurance from independent agents is likely your best option.

What Is an Independent Commercial Insurance Agent?

An independent commercial insurance agency works with multiple carriers, allowing its agents to offer flexible options at competitive rates. Independent agents are licensed professionals with an expansive knowledge of business insurance and a broad view of the insurance industry.

This flexibility and experience come together to deliver commercial insurance better tailored to your business than you’d get from a captive agent, who sells the products and services of only one company.

From theft and cybercrime to natural disasters and employee accidents, your company is exposed to a lot of risks. Independent commercial insurance agents are best positioned to provide the strategic advice and customized commercial insurance you need to protect your interests.

Why Choose a Customized Commercial Insurance Plan?

All businesses are unique, even within the same industry. The threats you face may differ from a similar company because you operate in a different region.

A commercial insurance agency can build a custom plan to cover the potential risks of your industry down to those that are specific to your area. In doing so, they can reduce your exposure and save you money.

Types of Commercial Insurance to Consider

Here are some of the most common types of commercial insurance coverages:

General Liability

This broad category of coverage can guard you against financial losses from claims against your business for property damage or bodily injury.

Property Insurance

With property insurance, you can shield the buildings, inventory, and other commercial properties associated with your business against financial loss or damage.

Auto Insurance

A commercial auto insurance policy can cover your business if a company vehicle injures someone, damages property, or gets damaged itself.

Worker’s Compensation

Worker’s compensation insurance can benefit both your employees and your business by covering the medical bills and lost wages of workers injured on the job. Offering these benefits means less likelihood of damaging lawsuits.

Professional Liability

Professional liability insurance can protect your business from claims of negligence, faulty work, mismanagement, and other breaches of professional conduct.

Crime Insurance

This type of insurance can help your business recoup losses resulting from fraud, theft, employee dishonesty, and other criminal actions.

Business Owner’s Policy

With a business owner’s policy, or BOP, you can build a customized commercial insurance policy from among multiple available business insurance coverages.  

Umbrella Insurance

Umbrella insurance can offer additional protection for your business against unexpected events that might exceed your coverage limits.

Your independent commercial insurance agent can put together a package of these coverage types to suit the specific needs of your business.

How to Get a Customized Commercial Insurance Policy

Business insurance can be infinitely complex. Fortunately, you don’t have to spend your valuable time thinking about it. When you work with a commercial insurance agency, your agent can customize a commercial insurance plan for your business while you focus on the important work of running your company.

How Independent Insurance Agencies Offer the Absolute Lowest Rates

There’s insurance you’re required to have by law and insurance you want to safeguard you, your family, and your assets. Auto, home, health, life, and commercial insurance can get complex — and expensive — quickly.

An independent insurance agency can simplify things for you, helping you find the coverage you need and want at the lowest rates.

Why Independent Insurance Agents Offer the Lowest Rates

Independent insurance agents want to earn and keep your business, so they put your interests first. Here’s why that focus on you means the absolute lowest insurance rates possible.

Working With Multiple Carriers

Independent insurance agencies work with many different insurance companies. When you tell an independent insurance agent your needs, they can begin comparing quotes from multiple carriers simultaneously.

The carriers know the agent is comparing coverages and costs to find you the best deal. Contrast this with a captive agent, who sells a single company’s insurance and can’t offer you other options. The competition an independent agent creates by comparing multiple carriers’ quotes helps drive the quality of your policy up and the price down.

Tailoring Your Coverage

If you’ve ever read through your insurance policy and wondered if all the coverages were necessary, you’re not alone. Captive agents want to sell you policies that meet their company’s quota or earn them the highest commission, but these policies might not be well-suited for your needs.

Independent insurance agents are well-versed in insurance. After taking the time to learn about your circumstances and preferences, they can explain and weed out coverage options, helping you find a policy that’s tailored to you. You can save money by only paying for the insurance you need.

Understanding Your Market

You have a good chance of finding an independent insurance agent that lives in your community. Many independent agents work in the communities where they grew up or have lived for a considerable amount of time. That works to your benefit.

An agent who understands your community’s climate and weather, traffic, and other risks can factor those risks into your home, auto, and other insurance needs better than an agent who lives elsewhere. Understanding your risk environment can keep you from paying for insurance that might not be appropriate for your region.

Seeking Out Discounts

Your insurance agent should be looking for every way you might qualify to lower your insurance premium. Ask your agent to review your policies for possible discounts for vehicles and vehicle equipment, homeownership, auto-payment and early renewals, education, and more.

One often overlooked avenue is group discounts, such as those for a professional group, fraternity or sorority, AAA membership, military service, or credit unions.

There are so many possible group discounts that it can be difficult to know where to start looking. An independent insurance agent will know that these discounts are out there and take the time to track them down for you.

Independent Insurance Agents Can Provide the Best Deals

Independent insurance agents can save you money in numerous ways, from comparison shopping to guiding you toward beneficial discounts. When you’re looking for auto, home, health, life, or commercial insurance, an independent agent can help you find a solid deal — and lasting peace of mind.

Commercial Insurance Guide for New Entrepreneurs

As a new entrepreneur, you’re likely excited about getting your business off the ground but also recognize the risks of running your business. You know you need insurance, but you may have questions about the types of commercial insurance you need, how much you need, and where to get it.

An accident, major weather event, theft, or lawsuit could end the dream of your business before it gets well underway. Fortunately, a commercial insurance agency can provide all the insurance your business needs to succeed.

Here is everything you need to know about commercial insurance as a new entrepreneur to safeguard your business against loss or damage.

Understanding What Commercial Insurance Is Required

As a business just starting up, you may be tempted to skip buying insurance, perhaps to save on costs. However, you may be risking more than your business by not buying insurance; you may also be breaking the law.

Legal requirements vary by state. However, many states require that you have worker’s compensation insurance and unemployment insurance.

You may also be required to carry disability insurance and other types of insurance, depending on your industry. If you’re unsure of what your state’s requirements are, getting in touch with a commercial insurance agent can help.

Other Commercial Insurance You May Need

To safeguard both you and your startup, you may need commercial insurance beyond the minimum required by your state. Take a closer look at these common types of commercial insurance:

General Liability

Every business should have general liability insurance. It can cover you against claims for property damage, bodily injury, and medical bills, as well as libel and slander.

Property Insurance

Commercial property insurance can guard your building, inventory, and equipment against loss or damage. This damage may come from fire, smoke, wind, or vandalism.

Auto Insurance

A commercial auto insurance policy can cover your company if a work vehicle causes damage or injury. Auto insurance can also be helpful if a work vehicle is damaged.

Product Liability

If you’re involved in manufacturing, product liability coverage can be beneficial. This coverage can guard against financial losses from a defective product causing an injury.

Professional Liability

Professional liability insurance can be another safeguard for your startup. It covers issues like faulty work, claims of negligence, and poor management of assets.

Crime Insurance

Many new entrepreneurs aren’t aware of crime insurance. With crime insurance, you can recoup losses from fraud, robbery, employee dishonesty, and other crimes.

Commercial Umbrella

The limits of certain liability policies might not cover a claim. Commercial umbrella insurance can extend that limit to cover the difference.

Business Owner’s Policy

A business owner’s policy (BOP) can customize a combination of these common commercial insurance policies into one. This can help provide the coverage you need and potentially save you money.

How to Buy Commercial Insurance

Getting the right insurance doesn’t have to be difficult. To simplify the process, make sure you take these key steps:

• Assess your risks

• Work with a reputable commercial insurance agent

• Shop around for the right insurance at the right price

• Re-evaluate your insurance needs every year

The peace of mind that comes with securing the right coverage is well worth your effort.

Finding the Commercial Insurance You Need

Money often is tight when starting a business, but forgoing commercial insurance could leave you paying for claims against your company out of your pocket. Working with a commercial insurance agent can help you identify the risks your business faces and the commercial insurance you need to cover those risks.

What Is the Difference Between Captive and Independent Insurance Agents?

Searching for the insurance you need to cover yourself and your family can be overwhelming. The terminology alone can often be enough to make you throw up your hands in frustration. Two terms that might cause you the biggest headache are “captive insurance agent” and “independent insurance agent.”

Before now, you may have thought an insurance agent was simply an insurance agent. But there are, indeed, different kinds of agents, and the distinctions between the two can mean quite a lot.

On that note, here’s a look at the differences between captive and independent insurance agents and how one might benefit you more.

An Independent Insurance Agent vs. Captive Insurance Agent

The most prominent difference between an independent insurance agent and a captive insurance agent is the number of insurance companies each agent works with.

A captive insurance agent, also known as a dedicated agent or exclusive agent, works for one insurance company and only sells the products of that company. A captive agent is paid a salary, commission, or both, and they also receive benefits. Captive agents receive support and training from their insurance company and can become extremely knowledgeable about the products they sell. However, their products may not meet your needs.

An independent insurance agent, in contrast, doesn’t work for any one insurer. They may work alone or as part of an independent insurance company, such as Garrett Insurance. In either case, they will serve as the middleman between you and the insurance firm, and they’ll earn a commission on the products sold. With access to many insurance companies and products at once, independent insurance agents can deliver policies that fit your specific coverage needs.

Benefits of Using an Independent Insurance Agency

Getting the insurance you need, instead of the one a captive agent needs to sell, is a great advantage that independent insurance agencies provide. Additional benefits of working with such an agency include the following:

Saving Time

An independent insurance agent can gather your information in just one telephone call and compare multiple quotes at once, saving you from calling or driving around town to collect quotes from several agents.

One-Stop Shopping

Working with an independent insurance agency means you can fulfill all your insurance needs (health, auto, life, commercial, etc.) in one fell swoop.

A Personal Advisor From Your Community

Independent insurance agents often live and work in your neighborhood, giving them a better understanding of your insurance needs. And since they do not have sales quotas to meet, they can spend more time answering your questions, helping you file claims, and advocating for you.

The Ability to Keep Your Agent

Over the years, your insurance needs will likely change, or your insurance company may drop your coverage. With an independent insurance agent, those circumstances are never an issue. Your independent agent can search multiple companies and find you another policy.

Building a Relationship

Over time, independent insurance agents not only get to know you but also learn about your family. That kind of long-term relationship can see to it that you have the right insurance at every stage of your life.

Independent Insurance Agents Look Out for You

Working with multiple insurance companies, independent insurance agents possess a broader view of the insurance industry and a deep knowledge of other companies. That puts them in the unique position of being able to help you get your insurance needs met and save you money in the process.

9 Tips to Maximize Your Commercial Insurance Coverage

If your doors are open for business, you need commercial insurance — whether it’s required for your industry or by law. It’s just good business to mitigate risks that could harm your company or even shut your doors.

From product liability lawsuits to vehicle accidents to cyber theft, threats to your business are all around you. But commercial insurance can safeguard your business to keep it operating, thriving, and providing for your employees’ families and your community.

Just like businesses, commercial insurance comes in all shapes and sizes, so it’s important to work with a commercial insurance agency to get the right coverage for your company. Consider these nine tips to know you’re getting the most out of your commercial insurance.

1. Understand Your Property’s Value

To know how much coverage you need and to maximize that coverage, you must know the value of what you have to protect. Assess your entire property, including the building, equipment, and inventory.

2. Buy the Right Coverage

Make sure you understand the risks of your industry, and purchase the right insurance to cover your risks and the assessed value of your property. Big problems could be down the road if your business is underinsured.

3. Read Your Policy Thoroughly

Before signing on the bottom line, read your policy thoroughly. You’ll want to review it with your commercial insurance agent to understand your coverages and policy limits, deductibles, and premiums.

4. Take Measures to Mitigate Risks

By increasing security measures, installing sprinkler systems, and improving and practicing safety protocols, you can reduce risks around your business. This can help you potentially receive discounts on your commercial insurance.

5. Maintain Good Records

Develop a solid recordkeeping system, and keep good records of company property, inside and outside your building. Use serial numbers, document purchases, and maintain invoices for equipment.

6. Expect Your Coverages to Change

Unless you don’t expect your business to grow, buy insurance that can grow and change with your company. Review and update your policy with your commercial insurance agency regularly.

7. Be Prepared for Natural Disasters

Determine whether your business may be prone to hurricanes, tornadoes, flooding, and other severe weather. If so, seek specialized coverage to mitigate those risks.

8. Secure Your Property

Many businesses suffer losses from theft and vandalism. Take measures to secure your property and reduce the risk of loss from theft or vandalism. Consider adding a crime policy to your commercial insurance.

9. Work With an Agent

Commercial insurance can get complex. Working with a commercial insurance agent who has the experience to see that you have identified your coverage areas and understand your policy is essential.

Get the Most Out of Your Coverage to Protect Your Business

Maximizing your commercial insurance coverage begins with properly assessing the value of your property and the risks your company faces. Taking steps like reviewing your policy regularly and securing your property can go a long way in helping you get the most out of your coverage — and keep your business thriving and growing.

8 Great Reasons to Choose an Independent Insurance Agent

It may seem convenient to dial the number on your television screen of a large national insurance carrier. But how will you compare prices, coverages, and policy limits to ensure you’re getting the best deal?

Insurance can safeguard your family or business against financial disaster. That’s no small matter to leave to five-minute searches between dropping the kids off at school and rushing to work.

Instead, consider leaving your search to an independent insurance agency. Like a personal shopper — but for free — an independent insurance agent can compare multiple quotes and find you the insurance you need at a price that makes sense for you.

If you’re looking for auto, home, life, or commercial insurance, here are eight great reasons to choose an independent insurance agent.

1. Offers You More Choices

Independent insurance agencies typically represent five to eight different insurance companies at once. With just one call or visit to an independent insurance office, you can receive several quotes on coverage for you to choose from.

2. Saves You Money

The premium you pay for insurance is based on many factors, such as age, location, and coverage needed, so comparing how well a policy fits your needs is the only way to know you’re getting the best price. An independent insurance agent can compare multiple quotes all at one time to save you money.

3. Provides Experience and Knowledge

Independent insurance agents are licensed. They also have a broad view of the insurance industry because they work with multiple insurers, big and small. 

That knowledge and experience means an independent agent can find coverage you might not have been aware of and explain the often complicated aspects of insurance in plain language.

4. Works for You

Unlike captive agents who work for one large insurance company, independent agents work for you. The advice they give you is for the coverage you need, not to sell a policy from a particular company.

5. Understands Your Community

Chances are that you have an independent insurance agency right in your community. Often, an agency’s name can be seen in the outfield of a Little League game or stretched across a kid’s uniform. Independent agents live where you live, helping them better understand your insurance needs.

6. Serves as a One-Stop Shop

Your local independent insurance agency can often satisfy all your insurance needs. You can get your auto, home, life, and commercial insurance from one agent, which can often mean a better deal as well.

7. Advocates for You

Insurance is complex and often confusing. If you need to file a claim, an independent insurance agent can explain your coverage and options and help you with the filing. If the insurer drops you, your independent agent can help you find another policy.

8. Builds a Personal Relationship

Many independent insurance agents live where you live and shop where you shop. You can drop into their office, and they will take time to connect with you. They get to know you and your family over the years, which strengthens their ability to understand your insurance needs.

The Difference an Independent Insurance Agent Can Make

Independent insurance agencies can save you time and effort looking for the right coverage. They also take the time to get to understand you and your specific needs. As they stick by you through changing insurance carriers, independent insurance agents can become both lifelong insurance consultants and friends.

What Types of Coverage Are Found in Commercial Insurance Policies?

If you run a business, you know you need to protect what you’ve built with commercial insurance. However, many business owners — and particularly those new to company ownership — don’t realize just how many types of commercial insurance are available to them. Here’s a look at some of your options.

Workers’ Compensation Insurance

Most types of employers are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance. This coverage may pay for medical treatment and partially replace lost wages if an employee gets hurt at work.

Even if you aren’t legally required to carry workers’ compensation insurance, it’s worth considering. When you compare the cost of insurance premiums (especially for a low-risk business with only a few employees) to that of a personal injury lawsuit, investing in a policy is the obvious choice.

General Liability Insurance

Along with workers’ compensation insurance, general liability insurance is among the most important types of coverage a business can have. It may pay for medical costs and other expenses if a non-employee is injured at your place of business. And if the case goes to court, your insurance may also pay your legal fees.

Liability insurance could also cover you if a competitor claims you committed “advertising injury.” This is when an ad slanders a competitor or uses copyrighted material. For example, you might need your general liability insurance if you create an ad that uses a competitor’s logo or claims that a certain competitor overcharges.

Cyber Insurance

If you store any kind of sensitive customer information online, cyber liability insurance may cover the costs you incur in the event of a data breach. If hackers get into your database, they may steal pieces of data like these:

• Social Security numbers

• Credit card numbers

• Addresses

• Phone numbers

• Health records

If your company is the victim of a data breach, you might be legally required to notify your customers, which can sometimes be expensive. You also may face lawsuits and all the legal fees that come along with them. The right cyber insurance policy can limit the financial impact on your business.

Errors and Omissions (E&O) Insurance

General liability insurance protects you if someone gets injured on your property, but it doesn’t cover problems with your work. E&O insurance is essentially professional liability coverage, and it may help cover costs associated with errors in your work.

For example, imagine that you’re a contractor, and you make a mistake that causes thousands of dollars in damage. If you have E&O insurance, your insurance will pay for the damage. If you do not, you’ll be stuck covering the costs of any damage out of pocket.

How much E&O insurance you need depends on the kind of work you do and the size of your business. A commercial insurance agent can help you choose the right policy. 

How Do You Know What Kinds of Commercial Insurance to Get?

Insuring your business is a critically important decision. However, if you’re like many business owners, you’re unsure which types you need (and don’t need). The good news is that you don’t have to make that determination alone. The right commercial insurance agency can get to know you and your business and help you create a policy.

4 Reasons Independent Insurance Agencies Offer the Lowest Rates

Finding the right insurance is always harder than it sounds. You want a policy that covers everything you need, has a reasonable deductible, and isn’t exorbitantly expensive. If you’re like many people, you shop around with all the major carriers before making a choice.

But did you know that, more often than not, an independent insurance agency can give you a better deal? Here’s a look at why.

1. They Work With Multiple Insurance Carriers

You might be used to comparing quotes yourself before choosing an insurance policy. When you work with an independent insurance agency, your agent does the shopping around for you. 

These agencies work with multiple insurance companies so they can compare rates to find you the best possible deal on coverage that includes everything you need.

2. They’re Part of the Community

Often, independent insurance agents have grown up in the areas they serve — or are, at the very least, long-term residents. That means they’re familiar with area-specific risks and can help you choose a policy accordingly. 

For example, if you live in an area prone to tornados, your agent might be able to help you find a home insurance policy that may keep you covered in the event of tornado damage.

Independent agents are part of your community, so they have an interest in forming long-term relationships with their clients. That leads to unparalleled support and customer service.

3. They Can Find You Group Discounts

Group discounts are insurance discounts offered to members of certain groups or organizations. There are more types of group discounts than you might realize. These are some examples:

• AAA

• Military

• Certain credit unions

• Colleges and universities

• Professional trade organizations

• Mensa

• Some employers

There are so many possible group insurance discounts that it can be difficult to find every applicable one if you don’t know where to look. However, most independent insurance agents will take the time to find you every possible group discount.

4. They’ll Help You Through the Claims Process

When it comes to claims, insurance carriers prefer to pay out as little as possible. This means that when a company-affiliated agent helps you with a claim, they’re protecting the carrier’s best interests. 

They might explain how the filing process works, but if you’re leaving out something that could lead to a larger settlement, a company-affiliated insurance agent probably isn’t going to tell you about it.

However, independent insurance agents are not loyal to a particular insurance carrier — they’re loyal to you. If need be, your agent can walk you through the claims process and offer tips to maximize your claim.

Finding the Right Independent Insurance Agent for You

Now you know that you might just find your ideal policy with an independent agent. Bear in mind that just like major carriers, some independent agencies offer more coverage options and better service than others. 

When you take the time to thoroughly vet insurance agents before making your selection, you’ll be well on your way to a quality policy.

8 Key Types of Commercial Insurance Coverage to Get

According to the Insurance Information Institute, there are more than eight million small businesses in the United States with one thing in common: they would be wiped out by disaster or a lawsuit without the right insurance coverage. In 2022 alone, commercial insurance losses totaled $202,732,883,000.

Carrying commercial insurance can reduce the risks you know your business faces, as well as the ones unforeseen. However, commercial insurance coverage can be confusing, leaving you wondering which coverage is necessary for your particular company.

As a business owner, you want to see your company grow, and both you and your employees rely on it to provide your livelihood and help you take care of your family. Here’s what you need to know about the types of commercial insurance that are key to protecting your business.

What Is Commercial Insurance?

Commercial insurance, also known as business insurance, can provide coverage against financial losses in your business from unexpected events, such as: 

• Accidents

• Burglaries

• Thefts

• Natural disasters

• Lawsuits

• Employee issues

You can obtain this insurance through a commercial insurance agent, who works to analyze the specific needs of your business and recommend the appropriate coverage.

8 Key Types of Commercial Insurance

You can buy many types of insurance from a commercial insurance agency. But these eight types of commercial insurance are essential for most businesses, regardless of the industry: 

1. Property Insurance

Property insurance is designed to provide coverage for the physical building where you do business. It may cover the building itself, your inventory, and your equipment — including computers and furniture — from loss or damage.

2. Liability Insurance

Known as commercial general liability insurance, this coverage may safeguard your company against claims for bodily injury, property damage, slander, and false advertisement. These claims could arise from your business operations, services, or an employee.

3. Business Interruption Insurance

If your business is forced to temporarily close or relocate because of a covered hazard, business interruption insurance may pay for loss of income while you’re closed or the costs of relocating.

4. Workers’ Compensation Insurance

Most states require businesses — including small businesses with one employee — to carry workers’ compensation insurance. This insurance can cover the medical expenses and lost wages of an employee injured on the job. 

Worker’s compensation insurance also has a benefit to you as an employer. Once an employee accepts insurance coverage for an injury, the employee typically waives their right to sue your company.

5. Commercial Auto Insurance

Commercial auto insurance pays for injuries and damages caused by your company’s vehicle or a personal vehicle used for company business. The insurance also can pay for damage to the vehicle.

6. Professional Liability Insurance

If someone files a claim against your company for negligence or faulty work, that claim may be covered by professional liability insurance. Other risks could include mismanagement of company assets and unlawful employment practices.

7. Crime Insurance

Your business may be able to recoup any losses from crime. These crimes may include fraud, burglary, theft, or employee dishonesty.

8. Cyber Insurance

Cyber insurance, or cyber liability insurance, may cover losses from a data breach or other cyber issues. For example, it can cover cyber extortion, investigative costs, regulatory expenses, and business interruption.

Find the Right Coverage for Your Business

Your company means a great deal to you, and many people count on it continuing to operate, even if an incident occurs. Talking to your commercial insurance agent can help you match the types of insurance necessary to effectively safeguard your business.

An Independent Insurance Agent Does the Shopping for You

How would you like to have a personal shopper — without having to pay extra for the service? With an independent insurance agent, that’s exactly what you get. An independent agent can shop around for the best insurance based on coverage and price, and you only pay your premiums, as you would for any insurance.

All you have to do is pick up the phone and call an independent insurance agency to provide personal details. The agent can then consider quotes from multiple insurance companies. This agent may also be able to find a deal that you couldn’t on your own. Take a closer look at how an independent insurance agent can benefit you in Texas and Kansas.

What Is an Independent Insurance Agent?

An independent insurance agent doesn’t work for one insurance carrier, but instead represents multiple insurers. By working with an independent firm, you get the convenience of an agent doing your shopping so that you can fulfill your insurance needs in one stop.

Within an independent insurance agency, your agent can take down your information one time and obtain quotes from multiple insurance companies for auto, home, and life insurance.

An independent agent is required by law to act in your best interests. Your agent gets paid by commissions from insurance companies, and commissions can vary. However, an independent agent should act ethically in presenting you with all options available for the coverage you seek.

Other insurance agents that work for one company are known as captive agents. Captive agents can only sell you insurance from the company they work for. You typically can also buy your home, auto, and life insurance with the insurer, but you’ll have to do your own shopping to compare quotes from other insurers. 

Benefits of Using an Independent Insurance Agent

An independent insurance agent may be more motivated to win and keep your business. This means you can get personalized attention from your agent. This agent can help you with:

• Understanding your rates and coverages

• Filing a claim

• Resolving issues that may arise with coverages

• Answering any questions you have

• Pursuing a better rate at renewal time

An advantage to buying insurance from an independent agent is that you can establish a relationship that can last even if you change carriers. An agent will get to know you and your family through working with you and understanding your insurance needs. 

So when a premium increases on renewal or your insurer drops your coverage, you can continue working with the same agent, who can then find you new coverage.

How an Independent Insurance Agency Works

Independent insurance agencies can give you access to most large insurance carriers, except State Farm, which doesn’t work with independent firms. Independent agents also work with small and regional insurance companies, broadening the types of insurance and coverages you might be able to find.

Have an Independent Insurance Agent Shop for You

Independent agents aren’t restricted to showing you options from a single insurance company. When you partner with an independent insurance agent, you can enjoy a wider range of options — and let them do the shopping for you.

What Are the Steps Involved in Filing a Commercial Insurance Claim?

As a business owner, having the right insurance coverage when something goes wrong can mean the difference between a quick return to normal operations or no return at all.

A commercial insurance agent can assist you with protecting your business against risks. You can turn to a commercial insurance agency for coverage like professional liability insurance, general liability insurance, commercial auto insurance, and workers’ compensation.

Each type of commercial insurance has specific requirements for claims. Still, if your business experiences a loss or damage, you can follow these general steps to file a claim.

What Is a Commercial Insurance Claim?

A commercial insurance claim is a request from you, the business owner, to your insurer. This request is for a payout for a loss or damage covered under your business insurance policy.

According to Forbes Advisor, the top three claims business owners face are:

• Burglary or theft

• Water-related damage

• Wind and hail damage

When an incident or accident occurs, you must file a claim with your insurance provider as soon as it is safe to do so.

Steps for Filing a Commercial Insurance Claim

Insurance providers usually require you to file a claim within 72 hours of a loss or damage. Filing as soon as possible helps you obtain the resources you need to get back on track faster. It also allows your insurer to provide directions on preserving evidence and protecting your business from additional damage.

Follow these steps for filing your commercial insurance claim:

Review Your Policy

Each insurer has a way it prefers to receive your claim — online or by phone. Following your provider’s procedure can minimize delays. Also, you can check the declarations page of your policy to ensure your loss or damage is covered.

Collect Evidence

Once you determine whether you can file and how to file, gather any relevant evidence you can, including:

• Contact information for you and others involved

• Policy information

• The type of loss or damage, such as property or liability

• The date of the loss

• A detailed description of the loss, damage, or injury

Taking photos can prove helpful to your claim. You also should take inventory, save receipts, and get quotes from two contractors for repairs. Tracking lost work hours and keeping records of all your related conversations is important as well.

Contact Your Insurer

The faster you contact your insurance provider, the faster the investigation can get underway. Delaying your filing can make it harder for an insurer to verify your claim.

Work With Your Claims Adjuster

Once you’ve filed your claim, a claims adjuster will be assigned by the insurance company within a few days. You will share all the documentation you’ve gathered with your adjuster, who is responsible for investigating whether your claim is covered and the amount of a payout.

Stay in touch with your adjuster. If you don’t hear from your adjuster within seven days to a few weeks, give them a call.

Consult an Attorney

You also might consider consulting an attorney, depending on the type of loss. If your claim is complex, an attorney can aid in getting all the right documentation together.

If Your Claim Is Denied

After the adjuster’s investigation, the insurance company may approve or deny your claim. If it is denied, you can contact your insurer to tell your story and contact your state department of insurance. At any stage of the process, a conversation with your commercial insurance agent can go a long way in understanding your coverages and filing correctly.

Your Independent Insurance Agency Offers Perks You Will Appreciate

In this fast-paced society, it’s unlikely you have time to run around town or even on the internet to track down and compare quotes for your home, auto, and other insurance needs. Wouldn’t it be convenient if you could talk to one person who could do all that research for you?

An independent insurance agent does exactly that. But saving you time and effort is just one of the many perks you may come to appreciate about an independent insurance agency.

What Is an Independent Insurance Agency?

Independent insurance agents in Texas and Kansas don’t work for a single insurance company. These agents typically work for themselves. They are licensed and often have contracts with multiple insurance companies. 

Those contracts say how the independent agent must act to protect your best interests and explain the commission an agent is paid from the insurance companies. 

Perks You Will Appreciate

Being separate from any singular insurance company gives independent insurance agents several advantages that work in your favor.

Personalized Customer Service

Independent insurance agents are motivated to earn and keep your business. They will take the time to: 

• Understand your insurance needs

• Explain insurance products, coverages, and rates

• Answer your questions

• Help file claims

Your agent also works to resolve any issues you might have related to your coverage.

Knowledge and Expertise

An independent agent must learn about many insurance companies, products, and coverages. This means that they are knowledgeable, licensed professionals who can find insurance that serves you best.

Based in Your Community

Every community is different, which has an impact on your insurance needs. An independent insurance agency is based in your local community, giving the agents a better understanding of how to serve your needs.

One-Stop Shop

Because independent agents have contracts with multiple insurers, you can talk to one agent and share both your needs and information at once. The agent will do all the legwork for you, comparing coverages and rates to present choices that align with your goals. 

This saves you significant time and effort. Also, an independent agent can help you find insurance for your home, life, auto, and more in one stop.

A Lifelong Consultant

If you have questions or need help filing a claim, an agent in an independent insurance agency is your advocate and can become a trusted advisor. Your insurance needs may change over the years, so you may switch insurance carriers. But your independent insurance agent, who knows you and has helped guide you, can stay with you.

Duty to Put Your Best Interest First

Independent insurance agents earn a commission — generally between 10% and 25% — for selling products from insurance companies. Keep in mind that the law binds independent insurance agents to act in your best interests. They will present insurance that can cover you and your family against risks, not just products that make them the most money.

With access to large and small insurers and their products, independent insurance agents can provide options to help you get the most for your money — which may be the most important perk of all.

An Independent Insurance Serves You

An independent insurance agency works for you, not the insurance provider. When you choose an independent agent, you partner with a professional whose goal is to get to know you and provide the best insurance that works for you and your family — at the best price.

7 Profitable Reasons Commercial Insurance Is Important

Have you ever driven by an empty building damaged by a fire or storm and wondered what happened to the business? It might have been the victim of being underinsured or uninsured.

A company that fails to purchase the right commercial insurance can find itself struggling to survive or out of business if hit with a fire, theft, or claims from accidents. If you’re a business owner, take a closer look at why commercial insurance is both vital and profitable.

What Is Commercial Insurance?

Starting and building a business involves many risks. Commercial insurance helps you shift some risks from your business to an insurer. Whether it’s damage to a consumer, a theft from your company, or an injury to an employee, commercial insurance is available to help your company withstand the financial blow.

A commercial insurance agency like Garrett Insurance can help you customize the right policy to help you stress less about an unforeseen event and focus more on running your company.

7 Reasons Commercial Insurance Is Essential

You have a range of costs to juggle to keep your company operating and growing. Keeping the cost of insurance in check is among them, but commercial insurance can also prove profitable in a business. Here are seven reasons why:

1. Fulfills a Legal Requirement

Many states require you to carry insurance to open your doors — for good reason. For instance, commercial auto insurance can help protect your company against claims if a work vehicle causes injury or damage from an accident. The insurance may also cover your work vehicle if it is damaged from rolling over.

2. Covers Work-Related Injuries

Federal law requires you to carry worker’s compensation insurance. Most people think about worker’s compensation insurance helping employees who might get injured on the job. However, worker’s compensation also supports business owners. Employees who file a claim and have their claim accepted can’t turn around and sue the employer.

3. Keeps Your Business Operating

Commercial property insurance can help get your business up and running after a theft or damage from a fire or storm or keep it moving forward if a key piece of equipment is damaged. Working with your commercial insurance agent, you also can make sure you buy coverage to provide loss compensation while your company can’t open its doors.

4. Helps Your Customers 

A business owner’s policy with general liability insurance may help fend off lawsuits from customers who claim they were harmed or injured by your product. The insurer can compensate your customers on your behalf.

5. Adds Credibility

Customers, vendors, and lenders may feel more confident that you are looking out for their interest if you carry commercial insurance. They may prefer to do business with another company carrying commercial insurance if you fail to buy it.

6. Supports Your Contracts

You may run into suppliers or delivery services who supply and deliver materials to your business or have a need to step foot on your property. Some suppliers and delivery services require you to purchase commercial insurance before entering into a contract.

7. Protects Lenders

If you want to buy or build a new building, a lender likely will require you to have insurance. It might be difficult for you to find the money to start or expand your business if you don’t carry insurance.

Protecting Your Bottom Line With Commercial Insurance

There are countless ways commercial insurance can help your bottom line. A discussion with your commercial insurance agent can help you discover the profitable reasons to purchase insurance for your own business.

An Independent Insurance Agency Will Find the Best Policy

If you’re looking for insurance, have you considered working with an independent insurance agency to find coverage that fits your needs?

Independent insurance agents work for themselves and can offer all kinds of insurance, whether it’s commercial insurance for your business or farm or personal insurance, such as home, life, and auto.

When you’re looking for insurance, consider that there are two types of agents: independent and captive.

Agents who work for large insurers like GEICO, Progressive, and Allstate are captive agents who can only sell insurance products from that company. They can provide you with in-depth knowledge about the offerings from their companies, but products are limited.

An independent insurance agency does not have the same limitations. This article will help you see how choosing an independent insurance agent can help you find the best policy.

What Is an Independent Insurance Agency?

An independent insurance agency typically signs contracts with multiple insurance companies, giving independent agents access to a wide array of insurance products to offer their clients. 

Independent agents are required to look out for your best interests. This means they should provide you with coverage options that best fit your needs instead of policies that will pay them the highest commission.

The Benefits of Working With an Independent Agency

When you begin shopping for the insurance coverage you need, there are several advantages to choosing an independent insurance agency to help you find it.

Quotes From Multiple Insurers

Chances are you’re pretty busy. If so, an independent insurance agent may be exactly what you need to find the best insurance policy.

You can sit down with an independent agent and talk through your insurance needs, providing the agent with all the information needed for a policy just one time. The agent can check multiple rates and coverages simultaneously, saving you the time and energy of switching from one insurance agent to the next.

Personal Attention

Independent agents don’t have sales quotas like captive agents to move specific insurance products, and they may be more motivated to land and keep your business. They likely will spend more time learning about your insurance needs, answering your questions about coverage, and working on your behalf to resolve any claims you have.

Keeping Your Agent

As your life changes, so will your insurance needs. This might require you to switch your carrier to get the insurance you need. Working with an independent insurance agency, you don’t have to leave your agent to do so.

Independent agents are licensed, experienced, and update their training and education to maintain their licenses.

You Can Find the Best Policy With an Independent Agent

By comparing many insurance products and coverage, independent insurance agents can often help you find insurance for your business or your personal life. They can provide advice, answer your questions, and explain your benefits. Independent agents also can search for the best pricing, helping you get the best policy at the best price.

4 Ways That Commercial Insurance Differs From Residential Insurance

Your home insurance policy protects you from liability and certain kinds of damage. If you need to insure your business, you might imagine a commercial insurance policy is much like home insurance.

However, because business owners have different needs than homeowners (and businesses generally face greater liabilities than homes), commercial insurance differs from residential insurance in more ways than you may think. Here’s a closer look at some of the main differences.

1. It Requires More Kinds of Coverage

A homeowners insurance policy will usually protect you from most types of liabilities. However, because businesses (especially businesses open to the public) face greater liability, a commercial insurance policy needs to include additional types of liability coverage. Here are some of the most common:

• Business Interruption Insurance: Can cover rent, payroll, and income if the business temporarily closes or relocates

• Worker’s Compensation Insurance: Pays for medical bills and other expenses if a worker is hurt on the job

• General Liability Insurance: Protects the business if someone is injured on the property

• Product Liability Insurance: Helps the business cover costs related to defective products

The exact types of coverage and policy limits needed will depend on the specifics of your business. An insurance agent can review your needs and help you design the right commercial insurance policy.

2. More People May Be Named on the Policy

Businesses generally have much more complex ownership structures than homes do. On a homeowners insurance policy, only a single person or married couple is typically named. 

On a commercial insurance policy, the named insured will be just one person if the business is a sole proprietorship. However, if the business is owned by an LLC or corporation, it’s the business — and not necessarily the people in it — that will be named.

3. It Can Cover More Than One Property

Residential insurance policies generally cover just one property — the home of the named insured. However, in some cases, a commercial insurance policy can cover multiple buildings or locations.

That being said, most insurers stipulate that to be included on the same policy, locations must have similar uses. For instance, if your company has two warehouses, both of them might be included in the same policy. However, you likely couldn’t include your warehouses and your retail store on the same policy.

4. It’s Usually Written by a Surplus Line Insurer

Most residential policies come from insurance companies licensed to work in your state. But as you might imagine, commercial properties come with greater risks than residential properties. 

In many cases, licensed insurance companies can’t take on these commercial policies because of risks. Instead, the commercial insurance policy comes from a surplus line insurer, a company that may be based in another state. 

Finding the Right Coverage

Whether you need a residential policy, a commercial insurance policy, or both, clearly understanding the differences between the two is vital. When you understand the unique benefits each policy type offers, you’ll be able to select the right coverage for your home, your business, or both.

How Is an Independent Insurance Agency Going to Find Me a Better Deal?

If you’re like many people seeking a new policy, your first thought is to go to a big insurance company. After all, the bigger companies will give you the best deal, right?

Believe it or not, the big insurance companies usually aren’t the ones finding the best deals for their customers. In the majority of cases, it’s actually an independent insurance agency that will be able to get you the best savings. Here’s why that’s possible.

Independent Insurance Agents Work for You — Not the Insurance Company

If you go through a particular insurance company, you work with what’s known as a “captive” insurance agent. This means that the agent works for the insurance company. They’ll still listen to your needs and help you find a policy that meets them, but their employer doesn’t permit them to compare rates across multiple insurers.

On the other hand, if your agent works with an independent insurance agency, their top priority is finding you the best coverage at the best possible rate. Because they can get you quotes from multiple insurance agencies, they have a much better likelihood of finding you superior coverage for a great rate.

You Get All the Coverage You Need — and None That You Don’t

Captive agents have to strike a balance between your needs and the needs of the company they work for. Their primary goal is to sell you the insurance company’s products, so they may convince you to pay for coverage you don’t actually need.

Sometimes, that extra coverage doesn’t seem like much per month, but it adds up over time. Agents who work with an independent insurance agency understand the need to keep costs down without sacrificing coverage, so they’ll make sure you aren’t stuck paying for anything unnecessary.

Independent Agents Understand Location-Specific Needs

Your exact insurance needs depend on where you live. Typically, an independent insurance agency operates in a limited geographical area, but major agencies are usually nationwide.

Here’s why that matters. If you’re in a flood-prone area, an independent insurance agent will understand that you need to make flood coverage a priority — possibly above other perils like fires or tornadoes. If you work with a nationwide agency, the agent you work with might not even know that there’s a significant flood risk where you live.

You Get Personalized Service With an Independent Insurance Agency

More often than not, major insurance companies prioritize speed. Buying a policy can be as simple as making a few clicks. That might seem appealing, but many people don’t understand potential gaps in coverage and the impact they can have down the line. 

An independent agent can speak with you over the phone or even meet face-to-face to help you identify unique coverage gaps and how to address them.

When You Want the Best Coverage at the Best Price, an Independent Insurance Agency Is Your Best Bet

The right insurance policy often means the difference between adequate coverage and financial disaster. Buying a policy isn’t a process you should rush — and it also isn’t a process you should enter without the help of someone who is working in your best interests. 

When you develop a relationship with a qualified independent insurance agent, you’ll get the benefit of great rates, personalized coverage, and a knowledgeable insurance advisor.

What Are the Leading Coverages Issued Under Commercial Insurance?

If you own a business — big, small, or even home-based — it’s important that you purchase commercial insurance to help protect your company against different risks and financial loss.

Coverages offered under commercial insurance may help protect your business and its assets against lawsuits, fire, theft, natural disasters, auto accidents, and more. Take a closer look at how this insurance works and what coverages are typically issued under it.

How Commercial Insurance Works

From business to business, coverage varies, but a few key considerations when putting together your commercial insurance policy include:

• What your business does

• Your location

• Whether you own or rent

• Whether clients visit your site

• Whether you keep cash on hand

Costs for commercial insurance vary with the types of coverage needed by different businesses. Key factors influencing costs are the industry you’re in, where you operate, the number of employees you have, and whether you’ve filed claims before.

Just like any other insurance, you can pay a premium monthly or annually, higher deductibles come with lower premiums, and higher coverage limits boost premiums.

Coverages Issued Under Commercial Insurance

There are many types of commercial insurance available, and while coverages vary, here are some leading coverages issued under commercial insurance.

Commercial General Liability

Commercial insurance coverage varies, but all businesses need commercial general liability insurance. This insurance can cover someone who doesn’t work for you getting injured or having their property damaged by your business operations. The insurance can help pay medical costs and legal fees.

Commercial Property Insurance

No matter where your business is located, even in your house or apartment, you can buy commercial property insurance to help cover your: 

• Building

• Signage

• Furniture

• Equipment

• Inventory

This commercial insurance may help repair or replace your damaged property.

If you rent your workspace, depending on the size of the property, a landlord may require you to carry commercial property insurance.

Commercial Auto Insurance

If your business owns and operates vehicles for company purposes, you may be required by law to buy commercial auto insurance. This insurance may cover injuries or property damage caused by you or your employees while you’re driving.

A commercial auto insurance policy also might cover medical expenses for you, your employees, or passengers in a company vehicle, as well as offer comprehensive coverage for theft, collision coverage, and uninsured and underinsured coverage.

Workers’ Compensation Insurance

Except for Texas, each state in the United States requires some level of workers’ compensation insurance. Often thought of as insurance to pay medical expenses for employees injured on the job or as a result of their job, workers’ comp also helps protect businesses. 

Once an employee’s claim is accepted, the employee waives the right to sue your company. It’s another level of insurance all businesses should purchase to help protect themselves from crushing financial loss.

Commercial Crime Insurance

While commercial property insurance covers many types of losses, it doesn’t cover losses from crime, such as:

• Burglary

• Employee dishonesty

• Forgery

• Fraud

• Theft 

You have to buy commercial crime insurance to help safeguard your business against these losses.

Getting the Commercial Insurance You Need

Every business is different, even those within the same industry. Survey your company, and take factors like your location and whether clients visit your building into account before purchasing commercial insurance. Doing so and working closely with your insurance agent can help you get the insurance protection you need for your business.

How Is an Independent Insurance Agent Better Than a Captive Agent?

Commercials for large insurance companies are a common sight. But deciding which insurance is right for your family can feel daunting, especially with the safety and future of your family on the line. Understanding how certain insurance options differ can be a great place to start.

For example, many people aren’t familiar with the concept of an independent insurance agent vs. a captive agent. What is the difference between these two types of insurance agents exactly, and is one a better option than the other? Here is why an independent insurance agent can be a better option than a captive agent.

Independent Agent vs. Captive Agent

An independent insurance agent and a captive insurance agent differ in the number of insurance products they offer, as well as the variety of insurance products. Both types of agents will work to find the insurance that fits your needs, but the similarities end there.

An independent agent works in an independent insurance agency that represents more than one insurance company. This means that the independent insurance agent can present you with a range of options for both products and prices.

By working in an independent insurance agency, the agent also isn’t constrained by corporate policies and quotas that might be found at single-insurer companies. As a result, an independent insurance agent may offer more personalized advice and service.

Unlike the independent insurance agent, the captive agent works for a single insurance company and can only sell that company’s products. Typically, corporate policies and requirements limit and restrict captive agents from offering flexibility with pricing and on a smaller number of products.

Advantages of an Independent Insurance Agency

When you’re looking to protect your family against financial losses, an independent insurance agency can provide distinct advantages over a single insurance company. Your independent agent can:

• Provide More Options: You can compare many prices and products

• Help You Save Money: You can access lower rates and discounts not found with a captive agent

• Advocate for You: You have someone who can help with claims and policy changes

• Offer Personalized Advice: Your agent has your interests at heart, not a company’s

• Build a Relationship: Your agent has time to get to know you and your needs

• Serve as a One-Stop Shop: All of your insurance needs — life, health, home, car, business, or farm — can be met in one place

• Provide the Same License and Experience: You get professional service and guidance with the same license as a captive agent holds

Many consumers believe bigger is better. But when it comes to giving you more to help mitigate risks for your family, an independent insurance agency has you covered.

An Independent Insurance Agency Can Meet All Your Needs

Finding the right insurance for your needs can feel like an overwhelming task. But by turning to an independent insurance agent, you can benefit from a better range of pricing and product options and enjoy the peace of mind that all of your insurance needs can be handled in one place.